The RSPCA was called after the discovery was made on Wednesday, April 26. It’s thought metal fences put up by local people to help protect the birds while they nested may have been thrown at them.

But given what happened, and after feedback from local people, Shona won’t be being released back to Albert Park. Instead she is going to a private lake in an area where there are lots of other wildfowl - and where it’s hoped she might meet a new partner.

Jenny Walker is pictured with Shona the Swan (inset) and flowers at the lake in Albert Park

Vet Jacqui Paterson said: “The team here has worked really hard to help this swan through this awful ordeal and find her a great new home.

“She was so weak she had to be put on a drip when she first came in to us, and it was a few days before she was able to eat on her own, but we managed to turn her around and I’m so happy to say she’s now well enough to go back to where she belongs - the wild.

“After all she’s been through, we wanted to find her the perfect place and we’re confident we’ve done that.

“We’ll all be so pleased to release her tomorrow.”

RSPCA inspector Krissy Raine said they are still appealing for information about the April attack.

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She said: “It was such an evil act and deeply upset not only the local people who had been keeping an eye on this family, but everyone who has heard about what happened.

“It was an absolutely heartbreaking scene. The male seemed to have suffered a broken neck. The female was in distress on the water and when I picked up one of the smashed eggs, she came over to me and started nuzzling at the remains.

“The strength of the bond between pairs of swans isn’t a myth, as anyone who has seen a separated pair re-united can testify.”

It’s believed the incident happened on the evening of Tuesday, April 25. Insp Raine added: “We haven’t had any information at all as a result of our appeal for information unfortunately, and continue to ask anyone who knows anything they think might help our investigation into this awful incident to get in touch.

“There are potentially some really serious offences here. Swans, their nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.”

Call the RSPCA inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and ask to leave a message for Inspector Raine.